Hi all, we just need some advice for people who have moved to Boise or out of Phoenix recently.

A little background: We both mostly grew up in Phoenix and are now 36 and 33 with a 3 year old son and are thinking of changing states. We have never lived outside of Arizona and both are really hating the heat of the “summers” (6-7 months long isn’t a summer imo) and wanting something cooler. My family friend moved to Meridian from Seattle in 2023 and has been loving it.

The draw to Meridian/Boise:
Four seasons - being able to be outdoors a lot more

Bigger homes for the cost - although I’m beginning to think Meridian might not big much less affordable than Phoenix. We heard Meridian is similar to Gilbert, is this true?

Better education - Phoenix public schools are mostly terrible that we are thinking of homeschooling instead

Change of pace - we’ve heard it is a bit slower lifestyle pacing compared to Phoenix but unsure if this is true

Change of scenery - lived in the desert our whole lives, want to experience living somewhere else

Drawbacks:
Most of our entire family is in Phoenix (mostly a good thing) and help out with our son a lot when they can.

Jobs - obviously less opportunities than Phoenix but worried about finding work

Not knowing anyone - we just know my family friend and that is it, no other ties to Boise

For those of you who have either moved from Phoenix to Boise/Meridian, moved to Boise from somewhere else or moved out of Phoenix to somewhere else we’d love to know your thoughts!

Thanks,

in my specific situation i have hated living in my wife's hometown for the last 10+ years. i am desperate to make a move but not sure if that's selfish given her family is rooted here.

anyone care to weigh in?

My wife, our child, and I are currently living in California. We are planning to relocate to Costa Rica because both of our jobs are moving there.

We want to buy our own house instead of paying rent every month, but we don't have enough savings to buy a property outright.

I'm wondering if getting a home loan or mortgage in Costa Rica is a good option for us. Another option is to rent for a while, save more money, and invest our savings until we can afford a house.

For those who live in Costa Rica or have experience buying property there:

• Is it possible for foreigners to get a home loan in Costa Rica?
• How much money should we save for a down payment?
• Is it better to buy a house now or rent for a year or two?
• Are there any affordable options for a family on a limited budget?

If i could find a suburb or a semi rural town that feels like Brooklyn where i can bike commute that would be ideal

Or even just good public transportation and near a national park or something

Has anyone ever heard of this mythical place?

I would like to move to Philadelphia since it’s the only northeastern city that seems affordable coming from a cheap place such as OKC. I’m 18 years old and work in fast food and will be able to do at most $1000/mo for rent. My musts are good transit access and an overall city feel. Which neighborhoods should I look into and how can I be smart about this transition?

I’m lowkey done with Maryland and it’s the worst place to live in. I was doing some research about Washington state and liked how the weather is(don’t like sunny days and prefer cold days) and about education and employment rates cuz I’m in college and already got accepted there. I also got a friend who lives there so I won’t be alone that much and planning to move in January. Do y’all think Seattle is worth it right now and things to know before moving?